The Bill actor Jeff Stewart was taken to hospital last night after reportedly harming himself at the studios where the show is filmed.

The incident occurred after producers told the 52-year-old they were terminating his role on the programme.

Reports suggest the actor, who plays PC Reg Hollis, slashed his wrists shortly after being told the news by TalkbackThames, who makes the series.

A spokesperson for the ITV1 police drama said: "We can confirm an incident occurred yesterday following a meeting with Jeff Stewart, when it was discussed that Jeff's contract would not be renewed."

"Our primary concern is for Jeff Stewart's welfare. We are doing everything we can to ensure Jeff is getting the help he needs, and would ask that his privacy is respected at this difficult time.

"All our best wishes are with Jeff."

London Ambulance Service spokesperson Jenny Round said: “We were called at 5.50pm to Deer Park Road to an incident there. We sent one ambulance and treated an adult male and took him to hospital.”

Aberdeen-born Stewart has worked on the show since 1984, when the programme began. He has recorded more than 300 episodes and is the only remaining original cast member.

Last year, he was admitted to psychiatric hospital The Priory after collapsing at his home. Shortly afterwards he gave an interview saying he had suffered from depression but would never harm himself.

"It's true I was in a bit of a state. In fact I'd hit rock bottom and was on medication.

"But there is no way I would ever take my own life and I can't really explain what happened that evening."

Stewart was suspended from The Bill for a week in December, after reportedly losing his temper on set.

As well as The Bill, he has appeared on Hi-De-Hi! and Doctor Who.

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